Organizational Structure Of The Organization - 3890 Words

Nowadays, with the rapid modernization of daily life and living standards increase quickly, people s needs for quality of products and services therefore also increase. For this reason, enterprises need to set up the structure and policies to suit the changes of the market. One of the essential and most important factors to achieve that is the organizational structure. Organizational structure theory is especially useful for people who manage organizations, or who aspire to do so in the future. It enables the manager to see that his or her organization and its problems are rarely wholly unique. Usually, much of value can be learned from examining the behavior of other organizations in broadly similar circumstances. Organizations,†¦show more content†¦Part 2: The important role of organizational structure in one business. Part 3: The case study â€Å"how to create an effective organizational structure† I. Organizational structure: 1. Definition: An organizational structure is defined as â€Å"the formal system of task and reporting relationships that controls, coordinates and motivates employees so that they can achieve an organization s goals†. It consists of activities such as task allocation, coordination and supervision, which are directed towards the achievement of organizational aims. 2. The classification of organizational structure a) Pyramidal structure: Pyramidal structure (also called hierarchical or line structure) is one of the simplest structures with one person or a group of people at the top and number of people below them. All the people in the organization know who their superior and immediate subordinates are. This kind of structure is suitable for small businesses where there are few subordinates or organizations where there is largely of routine nature and methods of operations are simple. Advantages Disadvantages Simple to establish and operate Promotes prompt decision making Easy to control Communication is fast and easy as there is only vertical flow of communication Lack of specialization Managers might get overloaded with too many things to do. Failure of one manager to take proper decisions might affect the whole

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in...

â€Å"It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.† ― William Shakespeare My decision to pursue my Masters in Germany is underscored by my ardent desire to be enrolled in Masters at your esteemed institution. TU Munchen offers ample opportunities to excel in fields of engineering. In the changing world of science and technology everybody tries to be perfect, knowledgeable and expert in his/her field. Like many others, the thirst and quench of getting more and more knowledge also kept me motivated to follow my ambition. I was always fascinated with buildings (residential and commercial). The thought that how they are made and what makes them strong enough to support huge weights kept me thinking. This interest made me choose†¦show more content†¦Plain Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete made my concepts clear about significance of concrete in structures. Estimation Quantity surveying assisted me in perceiving principle knowledge about costing and quality control. And to boost up my abilities Construction Management featured importance of management, team work, coordination and team lead for project execution. During my 3rd year of the degree I got an internship for 4 weeks with the best organization related to construction NESPAK. I worked in Construction Management division of NESPAK at Aashiana Housing society project. For the first time, I learnt how quality control of materials is carried out to ensure safety and efficient construction. After that I joined MAAKSONS as an internee. I worked in Architecture division and worked as an Architect engineer on different projects (Houses, Badminton court, Squash court, Basketball court, Hospital) and also visited site to have my vision broadened. After completing my Bachlors I got a chance to work in S.K.B as a Site Engineer at METRO (BRTS Package II b) project initiated by Chief Minister of Punjab. I was exposed to modern construction methods, management and use of modern equipments. It enhanced my structural knowledge in Bridges and Roads as well as regarding execution and team work. After SKB I got an opportunity to work in EngineeringShow MoreRelatedWilliam Shakespeare s Romeo And Juliet1779 Words   |  8 Pagesand Juliet Final William Shakespeare once said â€Å"It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.† This quote means people are self-determined, there is no such thing as a predetermination. You are not â€Å"fated† to a particular result. This is not to say that somebody s circumstances (born into wealth or poverty) do not have a major impact on your life. It is not up to fate to decide what happens to someone, but it is someone s choices and decisions in their lives that will determineRead More edmundlear Edmund of King Lear as Nietzsches Free Spirit Essay2780 Words   |  12 PagesEdmund of King Lear as Nietzsches Free Spirit   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In King Lear, Shakespeare creates a brilliant tragedy whose plot is driven primarily by its villains. Of these, Edmund stands alone as a man who makes his fortune, surrounded by those who seize fortune only when it is handed to them.   Shakespeares ability to create a vivid, living character in the space of a few lines of speech triumphs in Edmund, who embodies a totally different moral system than that of Shakespeares era.   Three centuriesRead MoreEssay on Elder Scrolls III:Morrowind3837 Words   |  16 Pagesnegative behavior. Your game play—the narrative possibilities available to you, and the ones you actually take—changes and evolves depending on how your character acts, and other characters’ expectations about how s/he will act. In Morrowind, our character’s role in the game, and thus, the narrative paths that s/he can take, is shaped by us, his/her interactions with others in the virtual world of Morrowind, and their expectations of him/her based on the role s/he inhabits. To properly createRead MoreGender Roles and Attitudes toward Love in Shakespeares Hamlet5989 Words   |  24 PagesRomeo and Juliet is a heart-breaking tragedy written early in the career of playwright William Shakespeare telling us the story of two teenage ‘star-cross’d lovers’ whose unfortunate deaths ultimately unite the dispute between their two families. Despite the perils involved, they fall in love and marry with the help of two characters, Friar Lawrence and the Nurse. Throughout the play, Shakespeare portrays a range of different kinds of love through the central female characters. Maternal love is offeredRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 Pagesattract readers. Stanley Baronett. Jr., University of Nevada Las Vegas Far too many authors of contemporary texts in informal logic – keeping an eye on the sorts of arguments found in books on formal logic – forget, or underplay, how much of our daily reasoning is concerned not with arguments leading to truth-valued conclusions but with making choices, assessing reasons, seeking advice, etc. Dowden gets the balance and the emphasis right. Norman Swartz, Simon Fraser University v Acknowledgments Read MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words   |  1617 PagesSensitive Line 58 Understanding and Appreciating Individual Differences Important Areas of Self-Awareness 61 Emotional Intelligence 62 Values 65 Ethical Decision Making and Values 72 Cognitive Style 74 Attitudes Toward Change 76 Core Self-Evaluation 79 SKILL ANALYSIS 84 Cases Involving Self-Awareness 84 Communist Prison Camp 84 Computerized Exam 85 Decision Dilemmas 86 SKILL PRACTICE 89 Exercises for Improving Self-Awareness Through Self-Disclosure 89 Through the Looking Glass 89 Diagnosing ManagerialRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesPreface xxii 1 2 Introduction 1 What Is Organizational Behavior? 3 The Individual 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Diversity in Organizations 39 Attitudes and Job Satisfaction 69 Emotions and Moods 97 Personality and Values 131 Perception and Individual Decision Making 165 Motivation Concepts 201 Motivation: From Concepts to Applications 239 3 The Group 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Foundations of Group Behavior 271 Understanding Work Teams 307 Communication 335 Leadership 367 Power and Politics 411 ConflictRead MoreManagement Course: Mba−10 General Management215330 Words   |  862 Pageseffects, innovation might not have taken place at all. All this business growth has caused increasing complexity in business action and decision making. It has presented chief executive officers (CEOs) and management leaders in all markets and industries with new intricacies in deciding how to weigh and time the business decisions—and the quality of those decisions—that increasingly challenge their companies’ basic survival. W HICH FACTORS HAVE DRIVEN 3 4 Feigenbaum−Feigenbaum: TheRead MoreOrganisational Theory230255 Words   |  922 Pages. Organization Theory Challenges and Perspectives John McAuley, Joanne Duberley and Phil Johnson . This book is, to my knowledge, the most comprehensive and reliable guide to organisational theory currently available. What is needed is a text that will give a good idea of the breadth and complexity of this important subject, and this is precisely what McAuley, Duberley and Johnson have provided. They have done some sterling service in bringing together the very diverse strands of work

Teen Ager Rununig Away from Home free essay sample

The first cause of running away is conditions in the family. We will write a custom essay sample on Teen Ager Rununig Away from Home or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page One of the reasons is because they come from broken homes where their parents are divorced. They do not get enough love and care from their parents. As a result, they will go and find love and care elsewhere. Some parents have the habit of quarrelling in front of their children. The children feel ashamed of their parents and cannot stand this kind of environment. In the end they run away from home. Some parents are too strict with their children. They always punished, scold and lecture their children. They also put too much pressure on their children especially in their studies. Actually they should encourage and guide them more instead of putting unrealistic goals on their lives. Most teenagers do not like to be restricted and treated like children. They want to have their own freedom. They like to I think, the main causes why a teen-ager might run away from home are first, trouble at home between the parents and second, a bad bahavior of a teen-ager that is absolutely not accepted in the family. In some families, the parents are often argueing with each other. That might have different reasons, for instance, alcohol could play a part. If the father drank a lot of alcohol and possibly beat his wife, there would be a really bad situation at home. I think trouble between the parents hurts the children more than the parents themselfs. When a child has become older and has grown up to a teen-ager, he or she might decide not to go on enduring such a terrible situation and might indeed leave home forever. A second aspect I indicate is the behaviour of a treen-ager. In general, teen-agers change their behaviour during adolescence and start making their own decisions. These decisions do frequently harm themselfs. However, they have to make experiences and perhaps act concerning by wearing broken clothes, colouring their hair or start drinking alcohol, taking drugs and spending many nights in discos or clubs. Not all teen-agers act equally strong in this period of time, but some behave in a way that is no longer accepted in a family. Thus, over time, punishments has to be a result of this to make the teen-ager clear that he or she is not allowed to go on like this. If the teen-ager did not change his behaviour but wanted to procede, he either would leave home or would have to leave home. In conclusion, a bad and intolarant behaviour of either the parents or the teen-ager could move a teen-ager running away from home. I think, the main causes why a teen-ager might run away from home are first, trouble at home between the parents and second, a bad bahavior of a teen-ager that is absolutely not accepted in the family. The last cause may be drugs. Many teenagers at the age of about fourteen and fifteen began exploring with different drugs if it is available. Many try it once and never again, while others are weak minded and begin to take advantage of them, and before you know it they have a drug problem. Now the drug problem is quite so bad until the parents begin noticing a change and confront them with it, normally the teenager is still in denial or to afraid to ask for help, so they runaway. There are probably many other reasons why teens runaway, however these are the main causes in my opinion. A word to the wise if you are a parent, do not try to keep your teenagers sheltered, you will only hurt them in the long run. eReasons for running away from home There are many reasons why teenagers leave home without telling anyone. These reasons include: arguments with a parent or other relative  ·stress  ·abuse or violence at home  ·worries about money and debt  ·being thrown out of their home by a parent or carer  ·problems with drugs or alcohol For many teenagers, the actual decision to run away is taken on the spur of the moment. This means that someone who runs away has not thought about:  ·where they will go  ·where they will sleep  ·how they will get access to mone y  ·the effect their decision will have on family members Even if life at home is becoming unbearable, running away might not be the best option, even if it seems like the only one.

To Kill A Mocking Bird And Parents Essays -

To Kill A Mocking Bird And Parents Parenting is an act of being a parent, which means you show love and care towards your offspring. Harper lee's book To Kill A Mockingbird, shows the difference in parenting of the characters Bob Ewell and Atticus Finch. Some ways these two characters are different is depicted in this essay by: showing the difference in the hygiene of themselves and their children, their lifestyles, their community acceptance, and their morals and values. Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell are diversified in many ways in this novel that is why I chose to contrast them. The first difference between Atticus and Bob is themselves and their children's hygiene. Bob Ewell's child Burris was a very defiled child, ?he had a dark gray neck, the backs of his hands were rusty, and his fingernails were black deep into the quick? (Lee 27). Burris was instructed by the teacher to leave early to ?wash you hair with lye soap. When you've done that, treat your scalp with kerosene? (Lee 26). Burris was angered by this remark responding, ?You ain't sendin' me home missus? (Lee 27), this displayed a sort of defensive side to the kids due to their dads lack of parenting they have to fend for themselves in a cruel insecure world for a child his age. Scout and Jem were well-groomed children no soiled clothes or face were kept on them for a long time like Burris. The next disparate characteristic is that of their lifestyles. The Ewells lived behind the town garbage dump in what was once a Negro's cabin. ?No economic flatuatuion change their status? (Lee170). The cabin's plank walls were supplemented with sheets of corrugated iron, its roof shingled with tin cans hammered flat, so only its general shape suggested its original diamond. ?The varmints had a lean time of it, the Ewells gave the dump a thorough gleaning every day, and the fruits of their industry made the plot of ground around the cabin look like the playhouse of an insane child? (Lee 170). ?Nobody was quite sure how many children were on the place? (Lee 171), showing their lifestyle to be so corrupt that nobody really wanted to go to the dump to see who or what was there. Atticus, Calpurnia, (the housekeeper), scout, and Jem lived on the main residential street in town. Atticus had enough to support his family since he was ?admitted to the bar and returned to Maycomb and began his practice? (Lee 4), and also to make a living. The next polarity between Bob and Atticus is their community acceptance. Bob Ewell was considered as a ?guest of the county in prosperity as well as in the depths of a depression? (Lee 170). The Ewells were not liked by many due to their grotesque decorum, and their unhealthy habits. ?no public health officer could free them from congenital diseases? (Lee 170). ?He (Atticus) like Maycomb, he was Maycomb county born and bred? (Lee 5). The community accepted Atticus with great reverence with him being a lawyer for them, ready to serve and protect them when justification was needed in their life. ?he knew his people, they knew him, and because of Simon Finch's industry, Atticus was related by blood or marriage to nearly every family in the town? (Lee 5). The last contrast that I am going to relate, are Bob and Atticus's views of morals and values. Bob Ewell was very much a prejudice against blacks; his accusation led to the Tom Robinson trial, of course blaming a black. Bob Ewell doesn't very righteous fatherly morals/values, due to the fact that ?They (his kids) didn't have to go to school, for one thing? (Lee 31), showing he really didn't care that much. Atticus had virtuous morals/values, he, even though assigned, took the Tom Robinson case, even though he knew he was going to be scandalized for it. ?You might hear some ugly talk about it at school, but do one thing for me if you will: you just hold your head up high (Lee 76). Atticus showed that he doesn't want to have this bother his children as Atticus says in the book, ?I'm simply defending a Negro-his name's Tom Robinson? cal knows his family well. She says they're clean-living folks? (Lee 75). Also, Atticus brings up another good moral/value. In the gift-giving process, Atticus gives Jem and Scout air-rifles and tells them to ?kill all the bluejays you want, if you can hit'em, but remember it's a sin to kill

The Precedence of Perseverance free essay sample

During my eighteen years of existence I have been subjected to countless advisements, proposals, teachings and guidance. And though I am extremely grateful for all the lessons have I have encountered, one specific piece of advice triumphs over the rest. A British author known as Samuel Johnson once declared, â€Å"Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.† The significance and impact that this quote had over me was enough to form and shape my behaviors for the duration of my high school career. I spent all four years attempting to maintain an aura of diligence and understand the components of perseverance. If one were to look up the definition of perseverance they would simply see a cluster of large synonyms that have little purpose and lack compelling denotation. Nevertheless, over the years I have learned that perseverance is more of a state-of-mind than it is a simple adjective. In 2007 when I became a high school student I quickly realized a lot of things about myself. We will write a custom essay sample on The Precedence of Perseverance or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I became aware that success was an important part of my education and in order to obtain my desired success, I was going to have to develop an incredibly persistent work ethic. I made a plan to always take notes in class and never miss a homework assignment. Little did I know, however, that those were only the beginning steps in becoming an accomplished student. I needed to demonstrate my ability to remain determined, focused, and devoted. Even being slightly stubborn and relentless proved itself helpful when it came to challenges in my education. In specific subjects such as Math and Science the words of Johnson seemed to have a surprising effect on me. Algebra and Chemistry contained some of the hardest concepts I’ve ever had to deal with. It was in these two classes that I learned I did not possess the natural strength that these subjects required. What I did possess, however, was perseverance. I worked unbelievably hard, spending many of my lunches, studies, and afternoons obtaining extra help in both classes. I became focused on not just learning the material, but actually understanding it. The notes and homework assignments went beyond normal school work and I treated every task like it was a test. I soon realized that I was no longer treating these courses like a high school class, rather a personal assessment taxing my endurance. I had now entered a state-of-mind. The exact state-of-mind that is perseverance. The quote by Johnson has taught me that to persevere is to maintain the highest level of motivation that one has. High school was a time for me to perfect my capability to persevere and I plan to use my capabilities starting the first day I walk through the college campus doors. The ability to remain motivated and maintain immunity against defeat is perhaps the most important ability that one can acquire. For me, I was able to begin my journey towards this ability due to the insightful words of Samuel Johnson.

Argumentative Essay on Government Banning Video Games Essay Example

Argumentative Essay on Government Banning Video Games Essay Example Argumentative Essay on Government Banning Video Games Essay Argumentative Essay on Government Banning Video Games Essay Essay Topic: Argumentative Should the Government Ban the Sale of Violent Video Games? â€Å"Too many of the video games marketed to our children teach them all of the wrong lessons and values† (Whitehead 108). These are the words from the Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich who is trying to outlaw the sale of violent video games. This issue has been around for a while and the government is looking into it. They say that violent behavior by small children is an effect of the violence seen in the video games. Many people have supported the actions taken by the government but others see it as a waste of resources. There are a number of reasons the government should not get involved in banning the sale of video games. Parents should be responsible and take care of their children. Proponents claim that that the government should ban violent video games for a number of reasons. They claim that research has shown that violent video games affect young people in both short and long term. This leads children to criminal and antisocial behavior. Parents don’t actually know how violent video games actually are and use them to keep their children busy while they are minding their own business so there is no parental supervision. The government has taken interest in this since many people believe that the role of the government is to protect society and its citizens from damaging society as a whole. However, it would be wrong for the government to take steps in censoring violent video games since it is something that is impossible to do. The government would require a great deal of money to stop the sales of video games. Yet, it won’t stop anything since retailers could then move their sales to the internet where the government won’t be able to perform so well. All the money invested would then be a waste. Many people against the law say that the government should spend the money in something more useful or needed. It would be a waste of resources to try and control the sales when internet is so accessible to everyone and can provide access to anything. Furthermore, violent acts by children cannot be attributed to video games; there are a lot of things that come into play. Many known researchers have found that there is no link between violent behavior and video games. The most recent study was performed by Patrick Kierkegaard at the University of Essex, England; it suggested that there is no link between violent video games and violent behavior. Kierkegaard explained that the effect seems to be the exact opposite and one might argue that video game usage has reduced real violence (Kierkegaard). He also states that it is possible for certain types of video game to affect emotions, views, behavior, and attitudes, however, so can books. These can also lead to violent behavior on those already predisposed to violence. Nevertheless, many of the video games that are found to be violent are not created for children. These games are written for adults and have an effective rating system implemented on them. One such rating system is the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). It was created by the major video game manufacturers due to pressure applied by concerned groups about the content on video games. Many game companies now submit their products for rating by the ESRB. A number of factors are considered when rating games. They include the amount of violence, sex, profane language and substance abuse. The ESRB then gives an age recommendation and a content description to the games submitted. This rating system allows parents to know what each game contains and allows them to make responsible decisions for their children. As evidence shows, it would not be wise for the government to get involved in this. Parents play a large role in development of their children. They are the ones that go and buy the games for the children without paying attention to the safety measures already in place. I have been a video game player for many years and have played every kind of game. Yet, the teachings I received since I was a kid are still in me and I have never had the urge to be violent due to a video game. Parents should take responsibility for their children and the government should not be responsible for the actions of the parents. Dafoe Whitehead, Barbara. Parents Need Help: Restricting Access to Video Games. Elements of Argument. Ed. Annette T. Rottenberg and Donna Haisty Winchell. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins, 2009. 108-109. Kierkegaard, Patrick. Video Games and Aggression. International Journal of Liability and Scientific Enquiry. Ed. Johanna K. P. Dennis. New York: Inderscience, 2008. 411-417

The Battle of Midway - One of the Critical Events in World War II Essay

The Battle of Midway - One of the Critical Events in World War II - Essay Example The military confrontation between the United States of America and the Japanese Empire escalated in the early months of 1942, as strategic territories located in and around the Pacific Ocean saw unprecedented levels of attritional warfare. The following passages will analyze the unfolding of events during the Battle of Midway from various authors’ viewpoints and place this battle in the wider context of the Second World War and the then-emergent new world order. To begin with, let us consider the book written by Jonathan Parshall and Anthony Tully titled Shattered Sword: The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway. The most remarkable aspect of this book is the fact that the authors try to present the political and military developments from the point of view of the Japanese. American and British documentations of the Battle of Midway can at times be biased in favour of the Allied forces. So, this change in perspective offered by Parshall and Tully comes across as refreshing and different. This is not to say that their account of the story lacks objectivity and balance. We learn that Admiral Yamamoto’s planned to keep Japanese forces in the Midway and western Aleutian Islands as a way of gaining the advantage over the Naval Fleet of the United States1. In contrast with the commonly available literature on the Japanese plan, Parshall and Tully explicate in detail its technological, doctrinal and historical aspects spanning the early decad es of the twentieth century. The authors also allude to the contrasting motives and modus operandi of the Japanese and American air strategies. The following passage from the book illustrates the range of references and attention to detail exhibited by the authors: â€Å"The Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu, the four aircraft carriers of "Kido Butai," the First Mobile Striking Force formed the offensive core of Japans fleet. Commanded by Admiral Nagumo, "Kido Butai" planned to attack Midway and then destroy any elements of the U.S. Pacific Fleet that tried to intervene.     

Current event summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Current event summary - Essay Example The President was addressing a Congress sobered by the assassination attempt against Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and he made use of â€Å"his best chance of the year to connect with the country† to prove to the nation about his vision of economic revival. Thus, Obama devoted most of his prime-time to deal with the issues of the economy which is now reeling from a monster recession. (Feller, 2011). In his address to the Congress, President Obama clearly outlined his broad strategy for the economic growth of the nation in spite of the current issues of the struggle. The President maintained that both the Democrats and Republicans need to work together to keep the nation a competitive and stimulating economy. Addressing the issues of the economy and the strategies to overcome these, President Barack Obama emphasized the need for unity in a new era of divided government. In this speech, the President addressed his key plans to boost the economy, create jobs and cut spending, and his m ajor endeavor was to persuade the emboldened Republican Party which is deeply skeptical of the President’s plan for economic revival.

Quality Assurance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Quality Assurance - Essay Example Therefore, it is in the interest of a firm to ensure the goods that are produced are of high quality and are appealing to the market as a whole. In making this a reality, the firms have to indulge various aspects which include strategic planning, data collection and effective communication; both inside and outside the firm. The Core Concepts of Quality and Total Quality There are various concepts that are used by firms and businesses to improve the quality of production. When these concepts are implemented the firm gains by giving satisfactory results to customers. The first concept in TQM is developing customer focus (Rawlins, 2008:12). Customers create the main demand for the products and services that are offered, and will have direct impact on the performance of a business. Therefore, as a measure in a firm, it should structure the best ways of creating an impressive reception from the customers. This can be done by ensuring the products that are produced according to customersâ €™ needs. Production in a firm involves transforming raw materials to finished goods, which are used by the clients. Therefore, a business has to ensure it is centred on the production process, which will generate finished goods. This is a concept that involves structured processes that are repetitive. As such, a firm should have a developed way of ensuring these steps are followed to the latter, in ensuring the products are available at the right time (Rawlins, 2008:15). In implementing such procedures, the firm is likely to reflect satisfactory results in terms of production of products and services. 2.0 Total Quality Application to the Organisation in RWDI Formation of an integrated system is a concept in TQM, which explains the connection of all the functional parts in an organisation. While some organisations use the vertical integration of management, other firms embrace the horizontal structure of management. All these activities are vital in coming up with the end produc ts. Therefore, a well arranged structure will accrue the best results in a firm, depending on their effectiveness and efficiency. Therefore, a business has to involve both minute processes and the other large process to record the desired results. Many firms apply the aspect of continuous improvement, especially in performance. This is done in many ways where the products and services of a firm or organisation have to keep improving. In many instances, organisations direct their focus on improving the quality and effectiveness of products and services. With a constant improvement in the products and services, it is guaranteed that the organisation will attract a larger number of customers. As such, it increases the demand for the products of the firm, which in turn increases the performance of the firm. 3.0 Problem Hard and soft problems RWDI has been 3experrincingh a number of problems in regard to its performance. Its performance has been dwindling with time, which has lowered its reception in the market. However, there are two types of the problems that affect the firm. These are soft issues and hard issues where some are measured while others are not measured. To begin with, the firm experiences hard problems which occur from submerging profit levels. This is reflected from the low performance and appeal to the market. Apparently, the costs incurred in the firm are increasing day in and day out, which

Democracy And Freedom | Azerbaijan

Democracy And Freedom | Azerbaijan To begin this paper, I will define what Democracy is and what Freedom is. In this paper, I will illustrate and evaluate the most challengeable inconveniences that Azerbaijan faces, now more present than ever. Then, I will explain why is Freedom and Democracy are hard to obtain in Azerbaijan and what has been done so far to change the existing authoritarian government. Democracy can be defined as a theory, in which the supreme power is established by the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a method of representation. In political theory, democracy depicts a small number of affiliated forms of government and a political philosophy. Democracy comprises two principles- equality and freedom. These principles are portrayed by all citizens being equal before the law, and having equal approach to power where all citizens are promised certain legitimized freedom and liberty, which are mostly protected by a constitution.[1] Freedom can be classified into two concepts: positive freedom and negative freedom. Positive freedom is freedom to do something rather than freedom from interfering. Negative freedom is a content of options that are open for a person or people in general; it is a matter of X being free to be Z. [2] In Azerbaijan, there are varieties of political parties representing diverse ideological and policy stages. In this sense, Azerbaijan has achieved one basic feature of pluralistic democratic politics.[3] Political parties in my country, mostly weak and small, and do not play a main role in national political life. A number of influences lead to this weakness. Azerbaijan is a presidential republic, and the constitutional determination of the presidency has been reinforced by the powerful political persona as I. Aliyev. Politics in general remains highly personalized, with few-high-profile individuals dominating the area. The personalizations of politics have gone further in my country, where Aliyev supporters and pro-government press from a sycophants refrain to praise the president. In this context, the pro-government parties tent to become vehicles for mobilizing support for the president in parliament, while other parties often serve the same purpose for leading opposition politici ans, readily splitting and adjusting to keep up with the regular disputes and divisions that take on a more or less personal level between their leaders. In Azerbaijan, up to date, there are more than 36 political parties: Pro-government parties (like New Azerbaijan Party) have poorly defined ideological or policy profiles advance the careers of stalwarts. It is hard to maintain a powerful doctrine in any key positive improvement towards to democracy and freedom in Azerbaijan. The corrupted police state is well set up between all ranks of society that it looks unbreakable.[6] People are used to perceiving elections and oppose within themselves. This is the idea of the civil proposal with deep scepticism and a sense of desperation. Those who talk about or try to act in favour of transformation are devastating their lives chasing the freedom. For example, Equality Party stated in May 2005, in Azerbaijan national radio, that Ehtiram Jalilov- deputy head of Azerbaijans National Democratic Party became the second opposition activist to die in unexplained circumstances during the upcoming presidential elections. In July 2009, Freedom House published results of research that calculated countrys political rights, civil Liberties, and status. Freedom House argues that with the population of 8,700,000, the score of Political Rights Score is six, Civil Liberties is five and the Status is said to be Not Free. In an Overview, Freedom House declares following, President Ilham Aliyev and the ruling Yeni Azerbaijan Party further marginalized the political opposition and other institutions of democratic accountability in 2008. The governments fierce suppression of media freedom was integral to Aliyevs victory in a controlled presidential election in October.[7] For example, while Azerbaijans constitution promising freedom of speech; the authorities absolutely bound press freedom in reality. Novruzali Mamedov, editor of the newspaper Talyshi Sado had been in state custody since February 2007, initially on a trumped-up charge of resisting arrest, which was then changed to a treason charge, who died in p rison on august 2009.[8] Azerbaijans authorities primarily do not limit educational freedom. However, my elder brother had practiced political pressure in State University of Azerbaijan. That pressure included reported threats to lower my brothers grades when he contributed in opposing political activity. Another example is that my father was disregarded as a teacher in college because of his membership in opposition parties. The government limits freedom of the legislature, especially for opposition parties. Azerbaijans government commands key judicial commissions and there is no indication that the court system is capable of bringing the government to book when it behaves unconstitutionally, or securing citizens rights against arbitrary government action. Although Azerbaijani legislators have approved several laws to enhance freedom of information, the law of the Azerbaijan Republic grants legislative ground for an independent judiciary, in practice judges do not role independently of the executive branch.[9] The judiciary is corrupt, inefficient, and obedient. Incidental arrests and detention are very common, particularly for members of the political opposition. Prisoners are often restrained for long periods before trial, and their access to lawyers is constrained. My military commander Gadir Musayev was victim of Azerbaijans corrupt systems. He was arrested during presidential elections and denied de fend by legal lawyer. As he claims, prison conditions were extreme; with many prisoners suffering from overcrowding and insufficient medical care, he was not given adequate medical care in prison. Azerbaijani authorities refused to allow independent medical treatment offered by a European Union delegation that visited Mamedov in prison in June.Musayev was one of the few lucky political prisoners who were liberated from prison with help of International Human Rights Organization. Corrupt leaders that bound the equality of opportunity control major parts of the economy. As I mentioned earlier, followers of the political opposition face job loss, exile, and dismissal. Public norms and poor economic conditions in Azerbaijan restrict womens professional roles. Domestic violence in Azerbaijan is a crisis; moreover, there are no laws to stop spousal abuse. Women can go to court for violence, but poor social values restrict them from doing it. According to Amnesty International, Azerbaijan is among eight authoritarian countries on the territory of the former USSR.[10] To give a clear view what is authoritarian means I will clarify the authoritarianism. Authoritarianism is a political doctrine supporting the principle of absolute rule: dictatorship, totalitarianism and absolutism. Authoritarianism indicates any political system that concentrates authority in the hands of a leader or small elite. Authoritarian leaders often exercise power arbitrarily and without consideration to existing organizations of law. The freedom to formulate opposition political leagues is either limited or nonexistent in authoritarian regimes.[11] In Azerbaijan, National society institutions weakened, while presidential powers were exceedingly reinforced in 2008. Many themes are off-limits to journalists, who generally practice self-censorship to prevent the dangerous consequences.[12] These include national security issues, excessively powerful or personal attacks on the president, and specific declarations about corruption and criminal businesses activities. At the minimum four journalists, jailed for their professional activity, remain in Azerbaijani prisons. The government disciplines widespread control over electronic media and silences all alternative voices. The authorities stopped broadcasts of BBC on local frequencies from January 1st. The move essentially guarantees a monopoly for state-controlled media and prevents any independent news broadcasts from reaching the Azeri people.[13] Corruption is one of the main problems obstructing democratic growths in Azerbaijan. Efforts to improve the situation on a legislative level fail at the application phase, as the state agencies authorized to conduct anti corruption activity are believed to be among the most corrupt agencies in the country. However, the countrys government reinforced its rule by elevating a prohibition from a third term presidency, which may lead to the life long presidency of Ilham Aliyev. The situation with freedom is estimated to stay poor as the government continues to silence judgmental voices in the country and disregard the international communitys calls for reformations.[14] Government of Azerbaijan wants us to welcome those who are constrained to act by their unlawful rules in order to endure teachers, farmers, law enforcement officers, entry and middle level civil employees, striving businessmen those many souls captured in the net of corruption are as considerably responsible as the very leadership that runs the system. They wish that everyone would suffer enough blame to be helpless of feeling and extracting legitimate moral crime at their outrageous actions. The hidden part of their skilful indoctrination machine works day and night to install into the community the guilty verdict. Nevertheless, the larceny, tyranny, praise, moral putrefaction, mistrust and skepticism are the products of their own deliberate actions, not some certain providence or ancient devastation.

Buju Banton :: Essays Papers

Buju Banton His voice is thunderous and piercing. With each lyric, he pounds away at our psyche and makes our bodies shake with rhythm. He has become the crown prince of Dancehall reggae in Jamaica, and is a force to be reckoned with in the Jamaican music scene. He is young, but mature and powerful, and his name is Buju Banton. Born Mark Anthony Myrie on July 15, 1973, Buju Banton has used his lyrical skills and pounding voice to take Dancehall by storm. He combines his own musical influences with those of Burro Banton and Bob Marley to achieve a sound and beat that is bringing generations of reggae listeners together for an enjoyable experience. He owns the audience with his lyrics and his stage presence, and is forming both a musical and cultural movement that is taking over Jamaica. (www.bujubanton.net) One of 15 children born to a street vendor inside Trenchtown, Banton lived in poverty for most of his upbringing. A direct descendant of the Maroons, his chubby appearance earned him the nickname of Buju, the Maroon name for breadfruit. His last name is a tribute to another reggae legend, Burro Banton, as well as the name for talented storytellers, from which much of his influence is derived. Buju entered the Jamaican music scene at age 12, where he was known as the â€Å"Lambada Man† of the Dancehall, working with the Sweet Love and Rambo Mango sound systems. In 1986, DJ Clement Irie introduced Banton to producer Robert French, who produced his debut single, â€Å" The Ruler.† At the age of 15, Banton had already worked with artists like Bunny Lee and Red Dragon. He was destined for success in the Dancehalls. In 1991, he met producer Dave Kelly of Penthouse Studios, and debuted on the label with 1992’s Mr. Mention, which broke all sales records on the island, including those of Bob Marley. With songs like Love Mi Browning, where he professed his attraction to light-skinned women, caused an uproar among the dark-skinned Jamaican women who viewed such comments as an insult towards their looks. He made up for his remarks, however, with the song Love Black Woman, and demonstrated that he had love for everyone in his repertoire.

Catcher in the Rye Essay on Holden’s Inconsistencies Essay

‘It is his inconsistencies that make Holden compelling as a character. ’ I completely agree with this statement, as Holden’s significant inconsistencies are what make him an insightful, genuine and compelling character. A world without inconsistencies would be very boring. As humans we are all drawn to the odd/ interesting things in life to some extent. This is why Holden is so compelling as a character; it is because he is different from the conformists of the world he lives in. As we can see in chapter 2 when Mr. Spencer says ‘life is a game boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules. We may think at first Holden thinks life is a game, however he believes the opposite, he is deathly serious about life, but he doesn’t accept the rules set before him by ‘phony’ adults. Another way that Holden is inconsistent with the world around him that makes him a compelling character is that he demands authenticity. For example in Ernie’s piano bar he believes Ernie is a ‘phony as he makes his music fake with trills and fancy technical display to impress the crowed (‘terrific snob’) As Holden demands authenticity he also doesn’t want art to be an occasion for egotistic exhibition. He thinks to himself, ‘I was surrounded by jerks. ’ Another inconsistency that makes him a compelling character is his hypercritical tendency to lie, however be always true to the reader: ‘im always sayin glad to’ve met you to some one I’m not at all glad to meet, if you want to stay alive you have to say that stuff though. ’ This quote also underscores his entire philosophy of life. He attempts not to keep himself alive but, but to keep the innocence of those around him. He also wants them to think he is really glad to meet them in order to preserve their innocence. Another example of many, is in the train talking to Morrows mother, he tells us, ‘her some was doughtless the biggest basted that ever went to Pency, in the whole crumby history of the school. ’ He tells her, ‘he adapts himself very well to things,’ and ‘he’s a very sensitive boy. ’ He concludes I’m the most terrific liar. ’ This quote sums up his hypercritical nature as he thinks liars are phonies. I feel that the inconsistency that makes him most compelling and empathisable is his attachment to Allie. The main cause of Holden’s depression and inconsistencies was Allie’s death. Through out the novel he talks about Allie very admiringly: ‘my brother Allie, the one that died was a wizard. ’ And,’ 50 times more intelligent,’ and,’ people with red hair are supposed to get mad very easily, but Allie never did. ’ Due to all this upraised talk about Allie in the past, it forces us to sympathize with him, which forges a relationship between Holden and the reader thus making him more compelling. Also, Holden’s subconscious battle between innocence and adulthood make him very interesting to the reader. Holden believes himself to be the protector of innocence. ‘ The catcher in the rye. ’ Which incorrectly derives its meaning from Robert burns’ song ‘comin thro the rye. ’ Which correctly interpreted is song about adultery and sex. Holden misinterprets the song as catching kid innocently running through a rye field about to fall off a cliff into adulthood. Holden is on the edge of this cliff, drawn to the adult world by sex but pulled back by Allie, as Holden connects him with innocence, and to lose his innocence would mean to forget Allie. We can see in chapter 13, this battle between adulthood and innocence that make him such an interesting character. In this chapter Holden is very keen to meet the prostitute: ‘put some water on my hair,’ he’ ‘tested to see if [his] breath stank. ’ He also, ‘brushed [his] teeth†¦ then [he] put on another clean shirt. ’ He said, ‘ I was started to feel pretty sex and all. It is obvious here that Holden is ready to lose his virginity and plunge into adulthood with no second thoughts. However his mind set changes when he realizes she is ‘young as hell. ’ His persona of the protector of innocence kicks in, ‘sexy was the last think I was feeling, I felt much more depressed than sexy. ’ Here his innocence overcomes adulthood and pulls him away from the cliff. Therefore it is Holden’s inconsistencies that make him such an interesting and compelling character to the reader.

There is little room for doubt that tourism is one Essays - Culture

There is little room for doubt that tourism is one Essays - Culture There is little room for doubt that tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. However, its impact on culture remains a source of constant debate. This essay will elaborate on both positive and negative effects of tourism from a cultural perspective.Providing economic incentives for cultural preservation is unarguably one of the main contributions of tourism. To many tourists, culture and history are what they first consider when choosing a destination. Their mindset has been recognised by many tourism sites and money has been subsequently directed toward cultural protection, including the maintenance of key historical sites. Tourism is therefore one of the primary forces contributing to the preservation of a culture.In addition to raising financing, tourism can make an indigenous culture known to the world and rally support worldwide to protect it. When a historic site or a site that shows a country's cultural heritage is made accessible to the public, visitors f rom all over the world will soon flock there. They will share their experience in the local culture with their friends and families once they return home, assisting this site to gain international fame. Both financial and technological support will flood in for the conservation of natural and cultural resources.On the negative side, tourism develops sometimes at the expense of part of culture. Food, festivals, costumes and other stimulating elements of a culture are highlighted to entertain tourists, constituting an insult to the locals and causing damage to the unique nature of a culture. Moreover, cultural commercialization has made the sacred elements of a culture commonplace and tourists are encouraged to attach little importance to a unique tradition, which cannot be found elsewhere.In the light of these facts, one can conclude that tourism is neither a boon nor a bane to cultural preservation. While its endeavour lo protect an indigenous culture should be recognized, it has pu t the integrity of a culture at risk.

Management 101 Essay Example

Management 101 Essay Example Management 101 Essay Management 101 Essay This subject is concerned with principles of managing business organisations. Management is important to organisations? business and survival.The dynamic nature of today? s organisations means that managers require certain knowledge, skills and competencies to manage organisations effectively. The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction and overview of management within organisations. The subject will examine management principles, concepts and theories of management, and give students an appreciation and understanding of various challenges facing managers in organisations in today? competitive global environment. OBJECTIVES Upon completion of this subject, students should be able to: ? ? ? ? understand and critically discuss the evolution of management thoughts; critically evaluate and apply management theories, models and concepts of management; be familiar with the structure, behaviour and environment of organizations, and be aware of the importance of mana gement towards attaining organisational goals in today? s competitive world.TOPICS Topic 1 Topic 2 Topic 3 Topic 4 Topic 5 Topic 6 Topic 7 Introduction to Organisations and Management Evolution of Management Planning and Strategic Management Decision Making Organisation Structure and Design Managing Work Teams Managing Human Resource 2 Topic 8 Topic 9 Topic 10 Topic 11 Topic 12 Topic 13 Leadership, Motivation and Communication Organizational Control and Information Technology Management Managing Change Innovation Managing Conflict Organisational Environment and Culture International Management Managerial Ethics and Social ResponsibilityPRESCRIBED TEXT Daft R. L. , (2012) New Era of Management, International Edition, 10th edition SouthWestern Cengage Learning USA. RECOMMENDED REFERENCES Robbins, S. P. DeCenzo D. A. (2005) Fundamentals of Management, Essential Concepts and Applications, International edn, Fifth edn, Pearson Prentice Hall, USA. Jones G. R. George J. M. , (2007) Ess entials of Contemporary Management, Second Edition, McGraw-Hill, USA. . 3 Subject Outline / Teaching Plan Department Lecturer Week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 : Business Studies : Mr.Vincent Oh Topics Managing in Turbulent Times The Evolution of Management Thinking Planning and Goal Setting Strategy Formulation and Implementation Corporate Culture and the Environment Ethics and Social Responsibility Managing in Global Environment Quiz 1 (15/7 – 19/7) Human Resource Management MID-TERM TEST/ BREAK ( 29/7 2/8/2013) BREAK Leadership Motivation Individual Assignment (23/8/2013) Communication Quality and Performance Teamwork Quiz 2 (2/9 – 6/9) Group Presentation Decision Making Designing Adaptive Organizations Group Presentation FINAL EXAMINATION 16/9 – 28/9/2013 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapters 17 and 19 Subject Code : D2MGT100 Subject Title : Organizations and Management References Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapters 7 and 8 Chapter 3 Chapter 5 Chapter 4 Chapter 12 13 Chap ter 18 14 15 16 Chapters 9 and 10 Prescibed Text: Daft R. L. , (2012) New Era of Management, International Edition 10th edition South-Western Cengage Learning USA. 4 ASSESSMENTS There are 6 assessment items for this subject. Assessment Items 1. Mid Term Test (Closed Book) 2. Quiz 1 (Open Book) 3. Quiz 2 (Open Book) 4.Individual Assignment 5. Participation (Group Presentations) 6. Final exam (Closed Book) Value 20% 5% 5% 10% 10% 50% Due Date 29/7 2/8/2013 15/7 – 19/7/2013 2/9 – 6/9/2013 23/8/2013 Weeks 13 14. 16/9 – 28/9/2013 (TBC) REQUIREMENTS To gain a pass in this subject, students must: ? ? Achieve a passing grade in the final examination i. e. score a minimum of 25 marks out of 50, if there is an examination for this subject Attempt ALL areas of assessment; and achieve a total result of 50% or better overall. ** Please check on the notice board and My Acel for the actual date. HELP University reserves the right to make any changes to the above where appro priate. 5ASSESSMENT DETAILS D2MGT100: ORGANISATIONS AND MANAGEMENT SEMESTER 2 2013 INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT (10% of total assessment) CASE STUDY: WALMART PART TWO: THE ENVIRONMENT OF MANAGEMENT – Yao Ming, Jackie Chan, and Walmart: China Embraces Big Stars and Big Box Retailing. When you? re an American retailer with thousands of stores liberally throughout the best shopping areas of the United States, at some point the question arises: â€Å"what next? † Top brass at Walmart were asking this question in the late 1980s, when stores were booming in the Southeast and spreading to all 50 states. Their answer? â€Å"Go global. † Walmart? s first step toward international retailing occurred in 1991 with the opening of a Sam? s Club near Mexico City.Today Walmart International is the company? s fastest growing business unit, accounting for 25 percent of total revenues. After official launch in 1993, the overseas operation expanded into 15 countries including Brazil, Can ada, the United Kingdom, and Japan. But the greatest buzz has centered on China, an emerging market of 1. 3 billion people. Walmart? s adventure in the land of dragons and emperors began in 1996 when rollout teams built a supercenter in Shenzhen, a city just north of Hong Kong. Walmart? s China entry was made possible by economic reforms introduced in the late 1980s under Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping. In a break from its isolationist past, China? communist-led government began making modest concessions to capitalism and Western businesses. The move sparked two decades of rapid economic growth, and Chinese consumers now buy everything from flat screen TVs and cars to designer apparel – they even purchase lattes at Starbucks and chicken at KFC. China? s modernization has become symbolized by pro-basketball star Yao Ming, Supergirl singing phenom Li Yuchun, Olympic world champion Liu Xiang, and Karate Kid martial-arts actor Jackie Chan – Sino celebrities who have achieved Western-style fame and lucrative sponsorships with American businesses. As Walmart? s spread throughout the People? Republic indicates, big box retailing is a hit with Chinese consumers. In 2004, Walmart operated 39 stores in China. In 2010, the number reached 290 total units, including 104 Trust Mart Hypermarkets, 178 supercentres, and 4 Sam? s Clubs. The early success has caused analysts to speculate that Walmart China will eventually have more stores than the domestic American market. Walmart China? s supercenters have much in common with their U. S. counterparts. The expansive stores are stocked with mountains of low-price merchandise, proving that Sam Walton? s â€Å"stack? em high, watch? em fly† philosophy has transcended cultural boundaries. But differences exist as well. First, 75 percent of Walmart? s nternational stores operate under different banner, reflecting the web of acquisitions and joint ventures Walmart uses to enter foreign markets. Next, the selection o f merchandise offered in China supercenters is oriented to the unique tastes of Walmart? s 7 million weekly Chinese shoppers. Grocery sections are stocked with live frogs, turtles, and fish – fresh apples of Chinese diets – and familiar American products are curiously altered, 6 as with Tide detergent, which is sold as a handwash laundry product due to the scarcity of washing machines in China. Douglas McMillion, Walmart International? s president and CEO, says that despite visible variations among stores, the company? s goal is the same in every area of the world. The primary objective is to save people money so they can live a little better,† said the head of Walmart? s fast-growing segment. â€Å"Our goal in every market where we operate is not only to deliver products at a great value, but also to ensure that all of the products we sell are made in an ethical and sustainable way. † But running a multinational operation in â€Å"an ethical and sustaina ble way† is easier said than done. In 2010, Google exited China over the country? s strict censorship policy and poor record on human rights. Years earlier, The Gap caused a firestorm of criticism by unintentionally sourcing products made by child laborers in India. Intent on learning from others? istakes, managers at Walmart have developed an Ethical Standards Program to audit suppliers and ensure the ethical procurement of goods. â€Å"In our „Standard for Suppliers,† says McMillion, â€Å"we outline our expectations that our suppliers must compensate all workers with wages and overtime premiums and benefits that meet or exceed local legal standards, local industry standards, or collective agreements, whichever are higher. † Rajan Kamalanathan, vice president of Ethical Standards, notes that the program is in place to do what is right for factory workers and the environment: â€Å"We not only bring sustainable and positive change to working conditions in factories, we also help build ladders to a better life in the countries where we? re sourcing. The new program is showing results: In 2006m the ethical standards team conducted 8,873 factory audits – more than any other company in the world – leading to a 23 percent decrease in high-risk standards violations. Policing the workplaces and ecological footprints of thousands of international vendors may be a herculean task, but executives at Walmart say it? s a necessary one. Chairman Lee Scott, in a discussion forum sponsored by Fortune magazine, laid out the case for international ethics and corporate social responsibility. â€Å"If China is allowed to produce the world? s goods without following reasonable protocol in protecting the environment and protecting people,† Scott reasoned, â€Å"ultimately governments will react and do something to balance that. So I think it? s in China? s best interest, and I think China understands that. Scott added that socially responsible business is simply good business – by reducing waste and energy usage throughout the supply chain, Walmart is lowering costs and paving a path to higher profits for all. â€Å"We? ve been able to go in and work with individual factories, where instead of costing them more money to do it the right way, the factory is actually able to save cost by doing it the right way. † QUESTIONS 1. Which market entry strategy is Walmart primarily using to enter foreign markets, and why has management chosen this approach? (15 marks) 2. What challenges do Walmart China managers encounter in the international business environment (10 marks) 3. Which of Walmart? s sustainability initiatives do you believe will have greatest positive impact on China? Explain. (15 marks) 7Assignment marking table Individual Report (10% of the module marks) Module Code: D2MGT100 Module Title: Organisations and Management. Student? s Name: _______________________ ID number: _____________ Assessm ent Criteria Question 1: Able to identify the market entry strategy is Walmart primarily using to enter foreign markets, and provide explanation why the management has chosen this approach? Question 2: Able to identify the challenges encountered by Walmart China managers in the international business environment Question 3: Able to discuss Walmart? s sustainability initiatives that have greatest positive impact on China? Explanation is provided.Knowledge of theory: Assignment demonstrates integration and innovation in the selection and handling of theory Clarity of Expression Accuracy, spelling, structure, clarity of messages and information TOTAL 10% of the module marks Comments Marks /15 /10 /15 /5 /5 /50% /10% 8 INSTRUCTIONS 1. The assignment is in essay format with headings and subheadings. The assignment must be TYPED and DOUBLED-SPACED. Font type is Times New Roman and font size must be 12 and justified. 2. The word limit is 1,000 – 1,300. The assignment must contain a word count. 3. The DUE DATE is on Friday, 23rd August 2013. All assignment must be submitted to the Department of Business Studies within the due date with the acknowledgment of receipt from the Department. 4.Sources of information contained in the assignment should be referenced appropriately using Harvard referencing. Assignment should have a complete BIBLIOGRAPHY with listing all books and articles. Plagiarism is a serious form of cheating and is not acceptable which will result in a failure of the coursework. No proper referencing will result in PLAGIARISM. 4. Students would be penalized for not STRICTLY adhering to the instructions. ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: 1. Evidence of understanding of relevant management concepts and Theories. 2. Clear and realistic answers. 3. Ability to apply concepts and theories. 4. Clarity of written expression (well structured and ogical flow of ideas; Attention to grammar). 5. Standard of presentation (good layout; careful checking for spelling mistakes and typing errors). 9 Assignment No. : __ Assignment Cover Sheet Student Information (For group assignment, please state names of all members) Name ID Grade/Marks Module/Subject Information Module/Subject Code Module/Subject Name Lecturer/Tutor/Facilitator Due Date Assignment Title/Topic Intake (where applicable) Word Count Declaration Office Acknowledgement Date/Time . I/We have read and understood the Programme Handbook that explains on plagiarism, and I/we testify that, unless otherwise acknowledged, the work submitted herein is entirely my/our own. I/We declare that no part of this assignment has been written for me/us by any other person(s) except where such collaboration has been authorized by the lecturer concerned. . I/We authorize the University to test any work submitted by me/us, using text comparison software, for instances of plagiarism. I/We understand this will involve the University or its contractors copying my/our work and storing it on a database to be used in fut ure to test work submitted by others. Note:1) The attachment of this statement on any electronically submitted assignments will be deemed to have the same authority as a signed statement. 2) The Group Leader signs the declaration on behalf of all members. Signature: mail: Date: 10 Feedback/Comments* Main StrengthsMain Weaknesses Suggestions for improvement Student acknowledge feedback/comments Grader? s signature Date: Note: Student? s signature: Date: 1)A soft and hard copy of the assignment shall be submitted. 2)The signed copy of the assignment cover sheet shall be retained by the marker. 3)If the Turnitin report is required, students have to submit it with the assignment. However, departments may allow students up to THREE (3) working days after submission of the assignment to submit the Turnitin report. The assignment shall only be marked upon the submission of the Turnitin report. *Use additional sheets if required. 11 Department of Business StudiesACADEMIC INTEGRITY Honesty a nd Responsibility Academic integrity is an important tenet for HELP University. In pursuit of the highest standards of academic integrity, the Department of Business Studies holds it students to the highest ethical standards defined by the Rules and Regulations section of the Academic Handbook. All students at the Department of Business Studies are subjected to and are bound by the Student Academic Misconduct Rule to assure academic honesty. Students are required to sign a pledge on the assignment cover sheet before submitting your assignments to the Department of Business Studies. What is Plagiarism? Plagiarism is academic dishonesty or academic theft, and it is a serious academic offence.Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, the followings: 1. quote, paraphrase or summarize someone else? s ideas, theories or data, in whole or in part, without appropriate acknowledgement 2. borrow ideas, opinion or words, in whole or in part, from other sources without properly crediting the author(s) 3. use any facts, statistics, diagrams or graphs, in whole or in part, without acknowledging the source clearly 4. claim or imply original authorship of someone else? s ideas, theories or data, in whole or in part, as your own 5. employ or allow someone to help to revise, amend or write your work and pass off as your own original work 6. collaborate with or allow other students to copy your work 7. raw on sources more than what you have acknowledged by citations While a student is not discouraged to discuss an assignment with his/her friends or classmates, the work he/she submits must be done by the student alone. If a student shares his/her assignment with other students and they plagiarize it, the student is as guilty as those students who plagiarized his/her assignment. All parties to plagiarism are considered equally guilty. Under no circumstances should a student be involved in collusion with other students unless he/she is permitted to work on an assignment jointly b y the lecturer/tutor. If a student is unsure what constitutes plagiarism, he/she is obliged to consult the lecturer/tutor on the matter before submission of his/her assignment. When and How to Reference? Knowing when and how to cite is a student? s responsibility.If he/she is in doubt or need more help on this matter, the student may consult the lecturer/tutor. The following list comprises some of the sources a student will need to reference. The list is by no means exhaustive, but simply consists of the most common sources used by students to complete their work. 1. Books 2. Chapters in books 12 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Journal articles Conference papers Newspaper articles Magazines Websites Study guide Students are advised to cite in the following cases [1]: 1. When he/she quotes two or more words verbatim, or even one word if it is used in a way that is unique to the source 2. When he/she introduce facts that he/she have found in a source 3.When he/she paraphrase or summarize ideas, int erpretations, or conclusions that he/she find in a source 4. When he/she introduce information that is not common knowledge or that may be considered common knowledge in your field, but the reader may not know it 5. When he/she borrow the plan or structure of a larger section of a source? s argument (for example, using a theory from a source and analyzing the same three case studies that the source uses) 6. When he/she build on another? s method found either in a source or from collaborative work in a lab 7. When he/she build on another? s program in writing computer code or on a notcommonly-known algorithm 8.When he/she collaborate with others in producing knowledge In general, a referencing system requires two parts: 1. In-text citations This is information about a source within the text of an assignment. 2. List of references This is a list of all sources a student has used to research his/her assignment. It is alphabetically arranged by author surname and appears immediately aft er the last page of an assignment. Different faculties or departments may have different requirement on how referencing for an assignment should be done. The various formats used for in-text citations and list of references are available in the following websites: 1. Harvard System ( delaide. edu. au/library/guide/gen/harvard. html) 2. Chicago Style ( chicagomanualofstyle. org/index. html) 3. American Psychological Association or APA Style ( apastyle. org) 4. Modern Language Association of America or MLA Style ( mla. org) Once a student has selected a referencing style for his/her assignment, he/she must follow the same style consistently throughout the assignment. We strongly suggest that the student consults the lecturer/tutor about which method to use before submission of his/her assignment. 1 yale. edu/bass/writing/sources/plagiarism/warning. html, accessed May 18, 2008. 13What are the Procedures and Penalties for Plagiarism? When a lecturer/tutor encounters a possible case of plagiarism, the lecturer/tutor shall report the matter to the Head of the Department, who then initiates an investigation on the matter. The following procedures would be carried out: 1. The lecturer/tutor shall provide evidence that substantiates an academic offence has occurred. The following documentations must be ready prior to reporting of alleged plagiarism: a. Copy of the alleged plagiarized assignment b. Copy of the source material (e. g. articles, websites, newspaper, etc. ) c. Report of plagiarism d. Any other information that would support the claim of plagiarism 2.If the evidence warrants an accusation of academic offence, the Head of Department shall establish a Board of Inquiry comprising 3 academic staff. The Department shall provide all necessary documentations, including report on prior academic offences if applicable, to the Board of Inquiry. 3. The Board of Inquiry shall put the matter to the student in writing and give him/her an opportunity to respond to the acc usation within 3 working days. 4. The student will be required to attend a meeting with the Board of Inquiry. After meeting the student, the Board of Inquiry shall decide whether or not the alleged plagiarism has occurred. The following documentations shall be submitted to the Head of Department at the end of the meeting: a. Findings of the investigation b.Recommended action(s) to be taken or imposed 5. The Head of Department shall review the Board of Inquiry? s report with supporting evidence and shall decide on an appropriate action(s) based on the recommendation of the Board of Inquiry. 6. The decision of the Head of Department shall be put in writing to the student. Copies of all documentations will be retained in the Department. 7. If the student feels that he/she has been unfairly accused or treated, the student may appeal to the Head of Department within 5 working days. 8. The Head of Department shall review the appeal and the final decision will be communicated to the studen t in writing and a copy will be kept with the Department.Once a determination of plagiarism and penalty has been made by the Head of Department, the investigative process will be deemed to have ended and the student will not be allowed to appeal. Possible penalties for plagiarism range from mark reduction for the assignment to expulsion from the University. The student will not be allowed to make up the assignment. If plagiarism has been found to have occurred, the Department will take action(s) as determined by the forms of plagiarism implicated: 1. Complete plagiarism Verbatim copying another person? s work without acknowledgement 1st offence : A grade of â€Å"F† in the subject and a warning letter will be issued 2nd offence : Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Head of Department 2. Substantial plagiarism Near-verbatim copying another person? work by simply altering the order of the sentences or the format of presentation or by changing a few words or p hrases without acknowledgement. 14 Zero mark on the assignment and a warning letter will be issued nd 2 offence : A grade of â€Å"F† in the subject and a warning letter will be issued 3rd offence : Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Head of Department 3. Minimal plagiarism Acknowledgement is made but paraphrasing by changing and/or eliminating some words 1st offence : Deduction of 50% of available marks on the assignment and a warning letter will be issued nd 2 offence : A grade of â€Å"F† in the subject and a warning letter will be issued 3rd offence : Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Head of Department 4.Unintentional plagiarism Insufficient acknowledgement by not applying citation or quotation marks correctly 1st offence : Deduction of up to 50% of available marks on the assignment and a warning letter will be issued nd 2 offence : A grade of â€Å"F† in the subject and a warning letter will be issued rd 3 offence : Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Head of Department Pleading ignorance or unintentional plagiarism does not constitute valid reasons for plagiarism and will not avoid the penalties from being imposed. Excuses for acts of plagiarism such as the following, but not limited to, will not be entertained: 1. I don? t have time to do the assignment 2. I have too many assignments due on the same day 3. I don? t know, I really didn? t do it 4. I am not aware 5. I don? t understand what plagiarism means 6. I have no intention to plagiarize 7. I forgot to cite the reference 8. I forgot to include the bibliography 9. My English is not good 10. My lecturer/tutor did not explain to me 11. In my country, it is alright to copy someone else? s work 12. My friend copied my ssignment when I let him/her to look at my assignment 13. My friend copied my assignment when I allow him/her to use my laptop 14. I did my assignment in the computer lab, someone must have copied my work 15. I asked my friend to submit my assignment and he/she copied my work 16. I discussed my assignment with my friends, so our answers are the same/similar 17. Even though I do not have in-text citation but I have bibliography/reference list Students should be reminded that it is their responsibilities to take due care throughout their written work to effectively reference or cite when they use others? ideas from any source. 1st offence : 15

Article Review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 28

Article Review - Essay Example Besides, Julia gives a broader picture of the extraneous factors that surround the act (Julia, 2014). The article asserts that the motive of creating the act was in good faith as it addresses the threat of increased fraud in the corporate world. However, the article also hints at some faction of the society viewing the act as politically motivation. This is a normal observation that corporate regulations which have significant influence in the government revenue collection and general economic progress of the country must attract such criticism. Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX Act) of 2002 is noted as effective in taming business malpractices that constitute fraudulent conduct of corporate financial governance. The aforementioned incidences are highlighted in the article as reflective of the potential threat hence the timeliness of this act. The article explains that the criterion that was used to create the act emphasized cost-benefit analysis. The act is expansively addressed by the article in terms of how it will boost ethical practices in corporate governance. The investors’ interests basically remain the key role of the company management. It is therefore unfair to rob the investors of their hard earned commitment to the stock market. The efficiency with which the act is applicable is overwhelmingly supported by Julia based on two practical premises. The flexibility of the act in terms of exemption of some small firms seems to be a positive idea. As can be noted in the article, the widely noted heavy cost of sustaining this regulation by firms justifies exemption of otherwise small companies. This to some extent is aligned towards ethical aspect of the act in its application (De & Argosy University. 2006). The financial transparency of the corporations is emphasized as the basis of ethical duty of the managers. Internal control

Marx on Alienation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Marx on Alienation - Essay Example According to the study findings  Hegel’s â€Å"spirit† represents totality of human life activity but which is always in contradiction with what it has itself produced, and which confronts it as something alien hence for him, â€Å"labor is the essence of man†. The problem is that Hegel only recognizes mental labor since men are thinking beings. On the other hand, Marx believes the essence of man is material labor and alienation results from man’s relationship with the products of his labor. Marx recognizes four kinds of alienation: alienation from product of his work; alienation from the activity of production leading to ‘loss of self’; from his species-being and alienation from other men.This paper will discuss these forms of alienation as depicted by  Ã‚   Marx and gaining insights from Hegel’s philosophy which forms the basis of Marx’s work. The paper will also evaluate which of his ideas are valuable and which are not gi ving reasons why. The Hegel’s concept of alienation from which Marx borrows from is based on man as a self-conscious being. That is, man knows the existence of other things but he does not relate to them objectively but only in the abstract form since they are just imagined things of philosophical mind which according to Hegel is â€Å"nothing but the alienated world-mind thinking within the bounds of its self-alienation†. Man’s products in this case, are products of abstract mind (mental labor) and man is equated to self-consciousness. This self-consciousness is his alienation.  

Assumptions of Human Behavior Personal Statement

Assumptions of Human Behavior - Personal Statement Example Her way of writing the letters, as emails and chats were not so prevalent few years back, was so charming that I had assumed her as the most beautiful girl on the earth. We finally fixed up a meeting and to my utter disappointment she was much older and totally devoid of the glamour I had attached to her in my conception. May be those were the fancies of a teenager about an unseen person but later I came across many similarly shocking revelations. For example as a student I had developed high regard for our literature teacher. She had a very calm, composed and elegant personality and I had her image in my mind as a person full of compassion. Once I saw her in the market place, shouting on top of her voice over some trivial matter. I felt as if she was hammering upon the beautiful image I had carved out for her in my heart. Human nature always keeps startling us in various ways. Many a times these revelations come to us after long associations. For instance, an elderly lady who was my business associate had taken great liking for me. Although we did business together, she treated me as her son. We had long conversations and she made me feel like her most precious associations. She confided in me about each and every matter including her souring relationship with her own children. She often told me how inconsiderate they had become towards her. She also appreciated my cordial relations with everyone around me and many a times even pleaded me to tell her how she can improve her relations with her family. Although I was much younger to her, she looked forward to my advice on all matters. One day I succumbed to her pleadings and made the mistake of telling her how she could improve her behavior. To my utter amazement, she turned around just like the ugly frog turning into a beautiful prince. This time it was the other way round. It was the beautiful prince or princess turning into an ugly frog. Her honey dipped tongue suddenly started shooting poison arrows at me. And in fraction of a second I was not only thrown down from the cloud nine where she had placed me but was trampled upon with demeaning expletives. This experience and many other experiences prove that human nature is totally unpredictable and it is very difficult to assume human behavior and reactions. At the same time, we still keep building a mental image of a person based on certain behavior portrayed by him or her. May be this is Nature's way of keeping the human race alive because in absence of any kind of expectation, we will lose interest in life. We have to accept such behavior as part of life. Even tiny creatures like birds show dedicated affection for their young ones who fly out of the nest as soon as they learn how to fly. The parent birds do not spend rest of their life shedding tears over this. They move on. We human beings are larger than those birds and that is why our behavior also has more amplified aspects and our reactions are even more amplified. This may be a natural trait but we can improve upon it with some acquired behavior just like we have acquired behavior in dressing, cooking and eating. We can learn to be mentally prepared for facing sudden change in people's behavior and not be so shocked. It is not an easy task just like learning to walk is not an easy task for a baby, just like tying shoelaces is not an easy task for a child. But they all learn it. We all can also learn that human

First Day of High School Essay Example for Free

First Day of High School Essay The beeping of my alarm clock sounded like a countdown. The first day of high school was only two hours away. I was excited, but a lot more nervous. I got out of bed, got ready, and then was on my way to the bus stop. All I could think of are the stories I heard about high school being so horrible with all the strict teachers, the really hard tests, and of course being a freshman doesn’t help either. The bus ride to the school was only ten minutes, but it seemed a lot longer. When we finally got there, I was more nervous than ever. The day ahead of me was about to get a lot more complicated though with all the work, finding a seat at lunch, and getting lost. After already being late to my first period and all of the not-so-bad classes afterwards, it was lunch time. I dropped off some books at the locker I shared with my boyfriend, and walked down with him. We were a little late when we got there so we ended up sitting somewhere we didn’t want to because the tables were already filled up. We went up to get our lunch and came back to find our seats were taken. We soon found out getting up meant risking your seat. The whole lunch period everyone was talking about how their day went so far. Most of them were complaining, including me. Then the bell rang and it was time to go to the next period. I really didn’t want lunch to end. But on the other hand, at least there were only about two hours left of the day. Finally, it was the end of the day. Finding my next class was easier. I still wasn’t in time, but neither were the other kids. When my 6th period ended, it was a huge relief. I thought the day was finally over. But I still had to get on the bus again to go home; therefore it still wasn’t completely over. I went to our locker, grabbed my take-home textbooks and checked to make sure I didn’t lock the combination in there again. I forgot which way to go, so I followed around my boyfriend. When I got outside, all the buses were in line. I walked back and forth trying to find mine or at least someone who was on the same bus as me. After most of the kids already found their bus, I started to get nervous. I still couldn’t find mine. Finally I saw someone who also took my bus. He was standing there clueless too. After a couple minutes, we finally found it. Our bus wasn’t in line like all the others were, it was behind some of the all of the buses. When I go t on, I knew the day was really over. To sum it all up, my first day of high school was a challenge. It’s a new school with new people, new teachers, new subjects, and new schedules. I also missed the school orientation so I was less experienced than most of the other students. I faced many problems such as the loads of work, finding a seat at lunch and keeping it, and getting lost. It was a long day, but I can now say I survived freshman year and the rest of High School.

Gender and Our Judicial System Essay -- Law

The ambiguous language and aim of the constitution has allowed for numerous interpretations of the law. There have been several instances, where our limited perception and interpretation of the constitution has warranted change due to cases that do not fit the ruling party’s ideology of equality. In those cases, we amended our constitution and included clear diction to award rights to those subjected to subordination, so in going forward a clear distinction would not allow room for interpretations that perpetuated further discrimination. Over the course of history, we have followed this path to incorporate our societies changing paradigm that was dissimilar to our founding fathers’. Interestingly so, the rights they deemed as inalienable are the ones that have required a clear distinction in order for them to apply to all. The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is a necessary requirement for women as well as others who are subject to sex-based discrimination. Although the rights of women are somewhat protected by the constitution, without the clear diction of the ERA, those who face this type of discrimination, are left in a precarious position. The passage of the ERA would necessitate pragmatic consequences in judicial equality, highlight the pervasiveness of modern inequality, and enact change in society’s paradigm of equality. The loose interpretation of the notion of gender in our judicial system is subject to filtration through outdated ideologies, stereotypes, and gender bias. As the law currently stands, the interpretation of cases that involve gender or sexual discrimination are filtered through constitutional acts or amendments that only partially protect. An example of this partial protection would be the 14th amendment. T... ...122). Macmillan General Reference. Sexism in language. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.upou.edu.ph/gender/gender_fair. Lithwick, D. (2011, June 20). Class dismissed. Retrieved from http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/jurisprudence/2011/06/class_dismissed.html Terkel, A. (2011). Scalia: Women don't have constitutional protection against discrimination. Huffington Post, Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/03/scalia-women-discrimination-constitution_n_803813.html Cotter, D., Hermsen, J., Ovadia, S., & Vanneman, R. (2001). The glass ceiling effect. Informally published manuscript, University of North Carolina, North Carolina. Retrieved from http://www.bsos.umd.edu/socy/vanneman/papers/CotterHOV01.pdf Wood, J. T. (2008). Gendered lives, communication, gender, and culture. (8th ed.). Wadsworth Pub Co. U.S. Const. amend. XIV, Â § 1

How to improve homeland security in the United States Essay

Since the occurrence of the September 9, 2001 terrorist’s attacks and the constant threats by international terrorists such as the al Qaeda, and given the upsurge in other domestic terrorist networks within the United States, several agencies have had to be high on the alert for possible attacks. Moreover, other industries have also experienced the adverse effect of this menace. The entertainment industry for instance, was at an all time low point after the terrorist attacks of September 9, 2001. Woody Allen (2001) observed that â€Å"Everywhere you look in Hollywood since that tragic day; the entertainment landscape has been transformed, as if ripped asunder by a massive earthquake. People have come to work feeling like jittery sleepwalkers, especially after the studios received FBI warnings late last week that they could be possible targets for terrorism. Nearly every studio has been postponing films, giving them face lifts or tossing scripts out the window. â€Å" Los Angeles Times 09/25/01 Despite efforts made by U. S. n liaison with other countries to root out this evil, terrorists’ organizations continue to arm themselves with various complex assortments of weapons, and training their disciples each dawn. The problem of terrorism has further been complicated by terrorist friendly countries that provide financial support, military equipment and other kinds of assistance that help perpetrate the crime. As Rondea (2008) posits ‘Right now, terrorist friendly countries allow or support schools, training facilities and institutions that indoctrinate children into terrorist cause at a very early age. They are literally growing terrorists and terrorist sympathizers. Without ever having met an American, these children grow up into men and women who hate us and believe it is their duty to destroy our nation. These complex dynamic further complicates the problem, making efforts to stop terrorism futile. It is due to these eminent problems that this study has been undertaken in order to counter this problem and thus improve security in the United States. Greater focus has been put on the three most sensitive areas that have been frequently used in the past by terrorists to gain access to the United States. These key areas are: the aviation transport department, the visa waiver program, and the information technology. Aviation Transport Department America’s system for protecting and controlling commercial aviation and guaranteeing its citizens’ safety continues to be a major are of concern, especially after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The Transportation Security System (TSA) employs the use of covert testing to discover techniques that are likely to be used by terrorists (Friedlander et. al 1979). This helps in identifying vulnerabilities and measuring the level of performance of airport systems. One of the methods used during these tests involve passing threat objects through passenger and luggage screening systems. This has been prompted by the realization that some terrorists smuggle dangerous chemicals onboard aircraft in order to construct explosives in flight (Clovis, 2008). Aviation security is made up of several layers. One layer involves the federal government’s ability to respond to threats, both actual and potential, while an aircraft is in flight. The Aviation and Transportation security Act which was enacted in November 2001 formed TSA as the agency in charge of securing all forms of transportation. TSA has since then, cooperated with other stakeholders in developing a layered approach that would guarantee the security of commercial aviation. This approach involves diverse yet coordinated measures that include providing flight and cabin crews with essential security training, thorough and systematic screening of travelers’ and luggage (Dacey, 2003). Response to an in-flight threat is, however, a duty well beyond the jurisdiction of the TSA. It involves four other departments namely: Justice, Defense, transportation, Homeland Security and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). These agencies may coordinate their activities using interagency communication tools in case of security threats arising during in-flight. This coordination efforts are however not only intricate and complex, but also involving. The stages involved include: identifying and notifying concerned agencies of suspected threat; discussing pertinent information and working in collaboration to assess the degree of the threat; making a decision on the action to be undertaken to counter the threat, and taking the action; and where necessary, finalizing the law enforcement response upon landing of the flight (Claude, 2008). TSA working in coordination with DHS has made some progress to counter threats in the aviation industry. TSA has for instance, designed covert testing programs on a national and local level. These programs are risk-based and are aimed at achieving its goals of identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in the aviation security system. Secondly, during the past seven years, several successful interagency operations have been undertaken by federal agencies, some of which have led to arrest and return of suspected terrorists to the United States to face trial. In addition, TSA’s Office of Inspection (OI) has utilized information on terrorist threats to improve its national covert tests and to select suitable airports for tests based on the likelihood of attack by terrorists. Moreover, the federal agencies have carried out more than 200 tests involving federal agencies, state and local participants. However, some tests conducted by TSA have occasionally failed. It is suggested that some of these failures may have been a direct result of poor screening equipment that fails to detect threat objects or a failure on the part of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to follow the screening procedures properly. Given that OI does not systematically record reasons for test failures, such failures can potentially limit TSA’s ability to counter identified vulnerabilities. Various suggestions are, therefore offered to help mitigate vulnerability that may arise as a result of such factors. First, documenting all specific causes for test failures related to Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) and those related to screening procedures, is critical to aviation security. This documentation should be done in the covert testing database in order to help TSA recognize areas that need improvement and undertake the necessary steps towards making these improvements. It is also suggested that a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, passing of information on effective practices that are used by airports whose security levels are commendable, need to be put in place at other airports to help TSA managers improve the standards of operation in checkpoint screening operations. Moreover, the Office of Security Operations (OSO) needs to consider in time all recommendations that OI makes as a direct result of covert tests. It should then state its rationale for undertaking or not undertaking to address the recommendations made. In addition, an evaluation need to be done to see whether the steps taken to implement OI’s recommendation actually countered the identified vulnerability or did not. These evaluation needs to be developed by OSO since they are better placed to make follow up and see the changes brought by implementations recommended (Dacey, 2003). Finally, it is also recommended that in order to mitigate vulnerabilities in the transportation security system, threat and risk assessment need to be done. Billions of dollars are spent by the United States annually in countering terrorism yet it is doubtful that these funds are channeled in the right amounts or even in the right programs. An assessment would be beneficial in helping target these funds, consider priority activities and avoid duplicating effort (Dacey, 2003). Cybersecurity Federal agencies are confronted with constant cybersecurity threats brought about by the increase in sophisticated attack methods or the transformation of typical attacks into complex forms that render efforts to counter them almost impossible. Some notable examples include unsolicited commercial e-mail (spam), messages aimed at fraudulently obtaining personal or sensitive data (phishing) and software that monitors the activities of the user without the user being aware or consenting to such intrusion (spyware) (Hare, 2008). Even though initiatives have been undertaken by several entities operating within the federal government, the risk posed by the blending of these threats cannot easily be mitigated with the available equipment at the moment. Some of the initiatives already undertaken include: enlightening consumers about these threats, and targeting computer crime (Perrow, 2007). The United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) recommended that in order to ensure cybersecurity, a number of measures would need to be undertaken. Firstly, DHS’s United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) would have to conduct frequent cyber analysis and warnings in order to make timely detection of attacks and threats. Secondly, frequent cyber attack exercises should be conducted and lessons learned be fully implemented. According to GAO’s recommendation, this can be accomplished by completing all corrective activities that the department identifies. Lastly, a strategy should be established to coordinate efforts aimed at securing or improving control system cyber security (U. S. G. P. O. 2004). The coordination efforts should include sharing of vulnerability information with other federal agencies as well as the private sector (Friedlander et. al 1979). In addition, other recommendations made to GAO to mitigate these threats include performing risk assessment periodically, implementing policies and procedures that are risk based to counter identified risks, educating and providing the staffs with security- awareness training and establishing procedures which will help in detecting, reporting and responding to issues regarding cybersecurity threats (Rondeau, 2008). Visa Waiver Program (VWP) The Visa Waiver Program provides way through which citizens of 27 countries can gain access to the United States for a period of 90 days without obtaining a visa (Moss & Michael, 2006). The terroristic attacks of 9-11, however, brought major concerns of the risk of foreigners with malicious intentions gaining entry into the United States. Consequently, tougher measures have had to be imposed to mitigate this potential threat. At the moment, foreigners from VWP countries are required to provide bibliographical information to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) department before leaving for the United States (Saunter & Carafano, 2005). This is in accordance with the Recommendations made in the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, Public Law 110-53, and Aug. , 2007, which also stipulates the guidelines to be adhered to by aliens from VWP countries wishing to travel to the United States either by air or sea. The amendments done to DHS regulations by the interim final rule allows for consideration of countries whose visa refusal rates laid between 3 and 10 percent in the previous fiscal year. Moreover, the regulation provides for the automation of the 1-94W process electronically in addition to enabling the provision of VWP traveler data in advance prior to travel by the individual. This is beneficial as it allows for a thorough scrutiny of the traveler’s documents well in advance before such individual enters the United States (Stiefel, 2008). The VWP however, still has some inherent risks that need to be tackled. Even though DHS has been successful in intercepting many counterfeit documents, an undetermined number of inadmissible foreigners have gained entry into the United States using a lost or stolen passport from a visa waiver country. Secondly, although the program eases consular workload, border inspectors face numerous challenges when screening VWP travelers. Notable among these challenges is the issue of language barrier and that of limited duration for conducting in-depth interviews (Wright & Wiesenger 2008). Moreover, due to insufficient funds, DHS’s monitoring unit cannot attain its main objective of monitoring and providing report on the ongoing security concerns in VWP member countries. Consequently, GAO recommended that in order to mitigate these risks, a number of actions will have to be implemented. First, DHS must incorporate biometric indicators into the air exit system in order to keep its power of admitting other countries into the program. Secondly, it needs to certify that the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) used for screening visa waiver foreigners before they travel to the U. S. is fully in operation by early January, 2009 (Moss & Michael, 2006). The certification will grant DHS power to expand the VWP to countries with visa refusal rates of between 3 and 10 percent. Thirdly, it is also proposed that a clear process be established in coordination with the Department of state and Justice to assist in determining criteria to be employed in considering countries to be included in the program, timelines for their nomination and negotiation of bilateral agreements meant to implement the legislative requirements of the program. Lastly, it was suggested that an office be designated whose purpose would be to develop overstay rate information to monitor whether VWP countries comply with the statutory requirements of the VWP (U. S. G. P. O. 2004). Conclusion New methods for improving homeland security in the United States were the main focus for this study. Particular emphasis was however, laid on the Aviation transport sector, the implementation of the visa waiver program, in accordance with the standards recommended by GAO and on effective methods of countering the risks brought on information technology equipment through computer crime. It can be seen from the study that the effective function of the key security areas discussed lies in the implementation of the weaknesses identified by the researcher and those recommended by GAO following a prior assessment of the operations of these key areas. After these recommendations are implemented, it is believed that homeland security will have been greatly improved. In conclusion, therefore, future research on the improvement of homeland security should address both merits and the drawbacks experienced upon implementation of the proposed changes.